On October 3, 2024, a significant traffic accident occurred in Ash-Town, Kumasi, involving a DAF truck with the registration number AS 5841-24, which was loaded with goods. The incident transpired around noon and resulted in considerable damage, particularly to a container that served as a food joint. Fortunately, reports indicate that no injuries were sustained during the crash. The driver, identified as Samuel Kojo Kyeremateng, experienced a loss of control over the vehicle, reportedly due to the breaking of the truck’s roof panels while descending a hilly road. His journey began in the Manhyia area, where he was en route to Ash-Town to offload his goods.
Eyewitnesses recounted a chaotic scene as the DAF truck veered off course near the Nana Buabasa Junction. According to their narratives, Kyeremateng struggled to regain control of the vehicle, which ended up colliding with a blue Toyota Matrix with the registration GS 6160-11 before knocking down the food container. The witness accounts highlighted the swift sequence of events; the truck first struck an Elantra and proceeded to smash into the container, which had only moments earlier been vacated by a food seller and two young children. This timing seems fortuitous, as the presence of these individuals could have resulted in injuries or fatalities.
One witness noted the alarming sight of the truck approaching from Nana Buabasa Junction with its roof panels damaged. This individual also mentioned that a family member nearly fell victim to the chaos while in a KIA vehicle. The witness praised Kyeremateng for his quick reflexes and the warning shouts he uttered, suggesting that these actions effectively averted a dire situation. The incident brought forth a collective sigh of relief from observers, who recognized the potential for significant tragedy had the circumstances been slightly different.
Upon visiting the scene of the accident, it was apparent that the DAF truck remained lodged within the container, a stark reminder of the violent crash. Kyeremateng, however, was reported to be unharmed, which underscores the importance of vehicle safety features and the unforeseen nature of road accidents. The visibility of the truck in such a precarious position also served as a depiction of how quickly a routine delivery could turn into a scene of devastation.
Mr. James Owusu Boakye, the Assembly member for the region, arrived at the site shortly after the event transpired. His immediate response involved contacting the Police and the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) to manage the situation. Given the circumstances of the accident, with one of the vehicles leaking fuel and a gas cylinder being involved, he also reached out to the Manhyia Fire Service as a precautionary measure against a potential fire outbreak. Boakye’s quick actions demonstrate the critical role that local authorities play in responding to emergencies and ensuring public safety.
In summary, this incident highlights the unpredictable nature of vehicle operation, particularly under adverse conditions. It serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of mechanical failures while driving and emphasizes the necessity for precautionary measures surrounding vehicle maintenance. The fortunate outcome of the accident, with no reported casualties, is a clear reflection of both fortunate timing and the effective response from the community and local officials in the aftermath of a potentially dangerous situation. As the local authorities assess the incident and implement measures to prevent future occurrences, the community can breathe a sigh of relief, grateful that a tragedy was averted that day in Ash-Town.
